Smoke floated up to the roof of the hall, illuminated by the "Divine Mirror," and the smoke, as if possessing a mystical power, drifted through the apertures at the top, merging into the layers of clouds high above.
Suddenly, there was a thunderous roar, and colorful lightning struck outside the hall, showering golden jade dew. The people bathed in this dew, feeling no chill, as if bathed in sweet rain, indescribably refreshed.
Small ailments were cured, serious illnesses half healed, peculiar diseases strengthened the body, and the healthy became more robust. This "Golden Rain and Jade Dew Fragrance" touched the clouds to bring rain, touched the mist to bring thunder, pouring golden rain over the earth, bringing blessings to all, truly marvelous in its efficacy.
While the young heroes in the hall couldnāt bathe in the golden rain, merely inhaling the fragrant smoke had similar miraculous effects. Suddenly, one young hero had a great epiphany, dancing with a sword in realization, surrounded by continuous strange phenomena.
The others gained insight, either sitting on the ground contemplating Martial Arts, or practicing moves, adding to their understandings. All were immersed in profound wonders. Li Xian also felt inspired, thinking, "If I seize this opportunity to gain insights, Iāll surely benefit. But I must not reveal myself, as Iāve hidden here for a reason, not to be noticed. Otherwise, if Gu Nianjun notices me, sheāll surely prevent my younger brother from seeing me. She appears friendly and approachable but is actually proud, though truly sincere towards my brother." Thus, he followed the crowd, exclaiming in admiration.
Madam Wang observed the crowd and said with a smile, "Today, there are indeed quite a few young heroes, and to see them all at once is truly delightful." The host stroked his beard and laughed, "Indeed, earlier the heroes showed their talents, burning incense in reverence to heaven and earth, and it made this old man quite happy."
Though the "Golden Rain and Jade Dew Fragrance" spanned twelve feet, it only burned for half an hour. Several rounds of golden rain descended from the sky, strange phenomena appeared, and then gradually ceased. The incense burned out, leaving behind three Treasure Pearls and four Treasure Jades.
Madam Wang gifted them on the spot to the young heroes. Zhou Shijie, Wang Dezhong, Yang Wentian... each received one, and they laughed, "You young men are indeed outstanding. I have a Human Yellow Essence Treasure at home. If youāre interested, and you hunt the Snow Mountain Spirit Fox, I will give it to you."
Zhou Shijie quickly said, "Madam Wang... Shijie is new here and doesnāt know about this matter, could you please explain it in detail?"
Wang Dezhong said, "No need for Madam to waste words, Iāll explain." He then told Zhou Shijie all about Madam Wangās "Dew of Dawn." Zhou Shijie learned of it, his heart pounding with interest.
Mu Hongchou said, "Madam Wang... if a woman hunts the Snow Mountain Spirit Fox, what will happen?" Madam Wang laughed, "If indeed a woman who matches men in prowess appears, this Dew of Dawn would naturally be gladly offered."
Gu Nianjun said, "But it sounds too difficult, to purely use Archery to hunt the Snow Mountain Spirit Fox, such skills are rare in the world. Itās said that in Flying Dragon City, City Lord He has a coat made of Snow Fox fur, from the Snow Mountain Spirit Fox he happened upon and hunted when he was forty-seven, and it wasnāt purely hunted with Archery."
City Lord He loves to study and often visits "Cui Zhu Residence" to converse with Gu Nianjun. City Lord He feels honored by the matter of the "Snow Mountain Spirit Fox" and often brags about it. As it progressively gets colder, the fox fur coat becomes useful again. Wearing it exudes extraordinary prestige, leaving a deep impression on Gu Nianjun.
Madam Wang smiled, "Young heroes, you should possess the spirit of breaking conventions and surpassing limits. Otherwise, how can you deserve my Human Yellow Essence Treasure, or be worthy of befriending me, Madam Wang?"
The hearts of the young heroes surged at her words. They grew even bolder in friendship, further boosted by this challenge, willing to attempt the hardest of endeavors.
With Madam Wangās gentle demeanor, the courage of the crowd was bolstered. Yue Kai said, "Madam Wang, may I boldly ask, the three conditions youāve set, two relate to appearance. Could it be... might it be for selecting a husband?"
Madam Wang said, "This matter is not certain. I solely love men who excel in Archery, that can stir my heart; choosing as a husband is not out of the question. This young lady is also a woman, what do you think?"
Gu Nianjun earnestly said, "Archery best represents the spirit. Madam Wangās eyes are discerning, and those who can perfect Archery are truly charismatic!"
Zhou Shijieās face darkened slightly, recalling his defeat at the banquet. He lost miserably in Archery, feeling dissatisfied, "That kidās Archery isnāt bad, but he took advantage of timing and positioning. Truly speaking of Archery skill, might not surpass mine. Iāve been practicing Archery in recent years, might even exceed him. Besides... why should I compare with him, a mere commoner."
Mu Hongchou agreed and said, "My senior sister also said, to look at a man, you need to see his Archery. Itās not about the precision of the arrow, but the spirit of the arrow."
Li Xian overheard from afar, secretly thinking, "This is somewhat similar to Madamās viewpoint. But itās also normal."
Madam Wang smiled, "Alright, todayās matters end here." She led her maidservant away. Zhou Shijie watched from afar, lost in thought, until her figure completely vanished, before returning to reality with a sense of longing.
This journey reaped great rewards, hearts swollen with pride. The young heroes, still excited, gathered to chat. The hall doors suddenly opened; it was already dusk, the setting sunās glow spreading, overlooking the distant cityscape, gracefully magnificent, with a refreshing breeze, endlessly delightful.
The festival was nearing its end, Zhou Shijie seized the opportunity to win over hearts, inviting the young heroes to a banquet at the tavern. None declined, full of spirit, they descended the mountain. One young hero proposed a Lightweight Skill competition, causing a burst of laughter. To avoid discord, the rule was set as "whoever is fastest treats".
The young heroes neither wanted to lag behind nor outpace anyone. Their speed was quick but not too fast, leisurely yet not slow, producing countless wonders, their figures ethereal and graceful. Together, they ran down the mountain path, swiftly disappearing.
Zhou Shijie said, "Nianjun, you should join us." Gu Nianjun said, "Alright, you go ahead, Iāll accompany Xiaofan down the mountain." Thinking, "The one who helped Xiaofan must be among these young heroes. This hero is quite unconventional; if thereās a chance, I should get to know him."